5 Common Mistakes Homeowners Make When Choosing a Front Door (And How to Avoid Them)
- admin256681
- May 5
- 3 min read
Choosing a new front door might seem simple — until you're actually doing it.
There are colours to pick, materials to compare, and questions you didn’t know you’d be asking… What lock system do I need? Will this door suit the style of my house? How much maintenance will it need over time?
At Doorquay, we’ve helped homeowners across Dundee choose front doors that not only look great, but feel right for years to come. And along the way, we’ve seen a few common mistakes that can lead to disappointment, frustration — or an entrance that just doesn’t quite work.
Here are the five we see most often — and how to avoid them.
1. Choosing a Door That Doesn’t Suit the Home
A modern high-gloss door might look stunning in a brochure — but if your home has traditional stonework or period features, it can clash quickly. On the other hand, a too-traditional style on a new build can feel out of place.
What to do instead: Pick a door that complements your home’s architecture. A light oak or Chartwell green door can soften a modern property, while clean-lined anthracite or black works beautifully with stone and render. If you're unsure, we help you match the style to your home and your personal taste.
2. Focusing on Looks Alone
Yes, kerb appeal matters — but your front door has a job to do. It should help keep your home warm, secure, and comfortable all year round.
What to do instead: Ask about energy efficiency and security features when you're looking at design. We’ll talk you through insulation ratings, locking systems, and how your door will actually perform in Scottish weather.
3. Overlooking Glazing and Hardware
Door glazing isn’t just decorative — it affects light, privacy, and insulation. The same goes for handles, letterplates and knockers — which can elevate (or unbalance) your whole entrance.
What to do instead: Think of your door as a complete design. We'll help you choose glazing that keeps light in without sacrificing privacy, and hardware that complements the door — not just comes with it.
4. Not Thinking Long-Term
That cheap-looking option might save you money today — but it could cost you later. Poor insulation, worn seals, or flimsy locks often mean cold draughts, rising bills, and the need to replace sooner than you'd planned.
What to do instead: Choose quality that lasts. Our front doors come with long guarantees, secure cores, and low-maintenance finishes — so you don’t have to worry about it for years to come.
5. Trying to Decide Alone
This is one of the biggest ones. You don’t have to know the difference between uPVC and composite, or make decisions from a catalogue and hope for the best.
What to do instead: We’ll guide you through it. From design ideas to material advice and local fitting, you’ll have help at every step.
Looking for the Right Front Door in Dundee?
We help homeowners across Dundee, Fife, Perth and Angus design front doors that feel right — from first impression to final fit.
Download our free door brochures here or book a free in-home design visit. Our door designer will pop round, measure up and help you design a front door that ticks all the boxes.
